Lionel Messi-Led Inter Miami Held to Frustrating 2-2 Draw by Atlanta United in MLS 2026

Inter Miami CF, featuring superstar Lionel Messi, was forced to settle for a frustrating 2-2 draw against Atlanta United FC in a captivating MLS regular season clash at Nu Stadium on Saturday night, September 5, 2026. Despite taking the lead twice, the Herons couldn't hold on, allowing Atlanta to snatch a point with a late penalty. Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo Could Play Together in Carlos Tevez’s Boca Juniors Farewell Match: Report.

Inter Miami Draw With Atlanta United

Full time at home. pic.twitter.com/TV1lxIVVNu

— Inter Miami CF (@InterMiamiCF) September 6, 2026

The match, which kicked off later than its scheduled 7:30 PM ET start time due to inclement weather, saw Inter Miami, currently second in the Eastern Conference, face off against a struggling Atlanta United side. The home team, coming off a dominant 7-1 victory over CF Montréal, aimed to solidify their position, but Atlanta proved to be a stubborn opponent.

First Half Dominance Undone

Inter Miami initially asserted control, breaking the deadlock in the 32nd minute. A pinpoint corner from captain Lionel Messi found midfielder Casemiro, who rose majestically to head home, giving the Herons a 1-0 lead. This marked Casemiro's second consecutive goal for Miami. However, Atlanta United responded almost immediately, with Miguel Almirón finding the back of the net in the 35th minute to level the score at 1-1.

Messi nearly restored Miami's lead with a trademark free-kick in the 40th minute, only to see his effort cannon off the post. Just before the halftime whistle, in the first minute of stoppage time, Luis Suárez put Inter Miami back in front. Telasco Segovia provided the assist, setting up the Uruguayan striker for his 12th goal of the regular season. The Herons went into the break with a 2-1 advantage, seemingly in control. Did Lionel Messi Delete His Instagram Post Claiming 'GOAT Debate: Settled'? Fact Check Finds Claim False.

Atlanta's Second-Half Fightback

The second half saw a more determined Atlanta United, who pressed high and created several dangerous opportunities. Inter Miami goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair was called into action multiple times, notably saving a penalty from Miguel Almirón in the 73rd minute, temporarily preserving Miami's slim lead.

However, Atlanta's persistence eventually paid off. In the 87th minute, after another foul inside the box, substitute Breel Embolo stepped up to convert Atlanta's second penalty of the night, bringing the score level at 2-2. Despite late attempts by Miami, including a header from Germán Berterame that sailed wide, the match ended in a draw, leaving Inter Miami with a sense of missed opportunity. Fans Chant Lionel Messi's Name as Copa Argentina Match Halts in 10th Minute To Honour Former Argentina Captain.

Key Match Statistics

Head-to-Head (MLS All-Time)

• Inter Miami Wins: 8
• Draws: 4
• Atlanta United Wins: 7

Looking Ahead

This draw means Inter Miami remains in second place in the MLS Eastern Conference with 43 points (12 wins, 4 losses, 7 draws). While a point is better than none, the manner of the draw, losing a lead twice, will undoubtedly be a talking point for manager Guillermo Hoyos. Atlanta United, languishing in the lower half of the table, will take confidence from their spirited comeback against one of the league's top teams. Both teams secured their spots in the Round of 16 of Major League Soccer.

Fans across the globe could catch the thrilling MLS action live on Apple TV, the official streaming platform for Major League Soccer.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 06, 2026 11:15 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).